POSITION SUMMARY

The Development Director is a new full-time position which will help develop and lead the implementation of GTCYS’ fundraising strategies to build relationships and increase philanthropic support. The Development Director will partner closely with the Executive Director and lead a small development/communications team. After a successful 50^th Anniversary Campaign in 2021-22, this is an exciting time to continue building individual giving and alumni relations.

The ideal candidate has successful experience building a comprehensive development program and leading a team, and is eager to grow with this role. The ideal candidate will also be a people person, have the aptitude to balance hands-on work with strategy, and thrive in a small, flexible culture that values diversity and collaboration. This is a remote role in the Twin Cities area, with in-person work as needed at GTCYS’ downtown St. Paul office, as well as attendance at donor meetings, GTCYS concerts, and key activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategy & Planning

• In collaboration with GTCYS’ leadership, develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive fundraising plan to support the growth of GTCYS’ short- and long-term program and organizational goals.
• Lead the creation of a broad-based development strategy.
• Assess and analyze the success of development initiatives.
• Manage annual development budget and ensure accurate record-keeping.

Individual Giving

• Plan and implement annual fund activities, including research, cultivation, solicitation, direct mail appeals, reporting, and stewardship of new and existing donors to increase annual fund and campaign support from individuals and major donors (GTCYS alumni, current parents and grandparents, community members).
• Mentor an effective team: oversee a new part-time Development Coordinator’s work, including gift processing, donor acknowledgement, data entry, and reporting; oversee the Communications Manager to effectively articulate GTCYS’ case for support across communications channels.

Donor Relations & Stewardship

• Attend GTCYS activities to engage constituents and build relationships.
• Plan meaningful and consistent stewardship activities.
• Develop and maintain relationships with alumni and individual donors, and serve as a GTCYS ambassador with the broader community.

Board Engagement

• Serve as the primary contact with the Development Committee.
• Support Board of Directors’ participation in development and stewardship activities.
• Lead the Leadership Advisory Council to increase engagement and broaden support.

Special Events

• Plan and coordinate cultivation activities and fundraising events, including GTCYS’ annual Orchestrating Opportunities benefit and student fundraisers, to engage and expand GTCYS’ community of donors.
• Oversee volunteers for development activities and special events.